Time- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (TARPES) has become a powerful tool to investigate the non-equilibrated states and dynamics of matter from an electronic structural point of view. Being a surface sensitive method, TARPES has also opened pathways to explore the ultrafast phenomena occurring on the edge of matter. We present investigations done on Dirac and topological materials by using a TARPES apparatus that achieves the energy resolution of 10.5 meV and high stability [1].

1. Classification of the topological phase of matter:

In 2008, it was demonstrated that there are two classes in non-magnetic insulators. A topological twist can be defined for the bulk band structure, and those that have the twist belong to the topologically-nontrivial class. The effect of the twist appears on the edge: On surface of topological insulators (TIs), novel Dirac-type dispersion is formed. Thus, the classification can be done by investigating whether the surface Dirac dispersion exists or not.

2. Functioning surface of topological insulators by light:

We discovered that surface photo-voltage (SPV) can emerge on TIs when the bulk is sufficiently insulating [5]. That is, TIs now meet the well-known opto-electronic function of semiconductors. We discuss that the SPV effect can be utilized to generate spin-polarized current on TI surface, and present the ongoing research towards this end.

3. Ultrafast dynamics of Dirac electrons:

Massless Dirac fermions have the ability to absorb light of whatever color. Thus, Dirac fermions are prospective in opto-electronics. In fact, ultrashort pulses of any color can be created by using TIs and graphitic materials. Broad-band lasing may also be realized if a population inversion can be formed across the Dirac point. Firm understanding of the Dirac electron dynamics thus becomes of paramount importance. We show that an inverted population is realized in the surface Dirac band of a TI Sb2Te3 [6]. Dynamics being either within or beyond a simple two-temperature model scheme is observed in layered Dirac semimetals such as graphite and SrMnBi2 [7].